'Stranger Things' Was Originally Going to Kill Off a Fan Favorite

We've now had the chance to enjoy two seasons of the hit series, but before Netflix picked it up, the show's creators, Matt and Ross Duffer, had a different ending in mind: one that included the death of one of fans' favorite characters. The Duffer brothers opened up about their original idea during a recent Q&A session at Chapman University, and it turns out we dodged a bullet we never even knew was coming.

Spoilers ahead if you are not caught up with 'Stranger Things.'

The Duffers explained that they originally envisioned and pitched "Stranger Things" as a limited series, as reported by CinemaBlend. Furthermore, they intended for it to end tragically; Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) was supposed to die for the sake of everyone else. As Ross Duffer put it, "Eleven was gonna sacrifice herself and save the world and then that was gonna be it."

Part of the reason Eleven had to die was because the Duffer brothers pitched "Stranger Things" as a limited series. Fortunately for us, though, Netflix wanted them to leave the door open for subsequent seasons. As they were "riffing in the moment," trying to come up with directions the story could go, the Duffers landed on a great idea for Season 2: a changed Will (Noah Schapp) returning from the Upside Down.

"Stranger Things" did indeed feature Eleven making a sacrifice at the end of Season 1, but we're glad it allowed her to return to the party toward the end of Season 2. That said, it doesn't sound like she's completely out of danger yet; the Mind Flayer could be looking for revenge in future seasons.